For a really good meal on a budget, check out Chows. "Chow!" on Church Street in the Castro District and "Park Chow!" on 9th Ave, right near the Strybing Arboretum in Golden Gate Park. If I was taking my children or visitors from out-of-town I think I'd use Park Chow as a lunch stop while enjoying Golden Gate Park and the amazing Arboretum there. The de Young Museum has just been re-opened also, so you've got that too.
For late night meals, I don't think you can beat "House of Gnocci" in Northbeach and follow it with a coffee and desert at the "Steps of Rome".
Don't forget "Mama's Cafe" at Columbus Park for breakfast. Be prepared for a wait and a not-so-cheap meal that will be soooooooooo worth it.
Shaughnn
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